How Much Does an Ignition Key Replacement Cost?
The loss of your car keys is a huge hassle. Getting a replacement usually involves an appointment at a dealership or an auto locksmith.
Based on the type of key, costs differ based on the type of key. Certain kinds of keys for cars are less expensive to replace than others. There are four types of ignition keys that include mechanical remote keyfob, remote, switchblade and transponder.
Mechanical Key
If your car was constructed prior to the 1990s there is a good likelihood that you have a mechanical key. These keys are simple and feature a head made of metal that is placed in the ignition, then turned to turn the car on. They are simple to duplicate and do not contain any electronic components. If you have a traditional key, it can be easily cut and programmed by an auto locksmith and will cost you less than $50.
In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used. They are designed to operate from a distance with a remote control instead of needing to insert the key into the ignition. They are much simpler to duplicate and don't require any special tools to accomplish this however they cost more than a traditional key.
Transponder keys, introduced in 1995, are fitted with microchips that communicate with the vehicle immobilizer to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the motor. Transponder keys are more difficult to duplicate and generally cost more to have cut and programmed.
If you have trouble starting your car, it could be due to a malfunctioning switch. This part will cost you more than a standard one, however, it's worth the investment to ensure that your vehicle is safe.
If your ignition lock cylinder gets stuck or isn't able to be placed in by gently turning the key. This can help free the lock wafers that may have become slightly damaged over time due to frequent use. However, it's important to note that this is not always successful and may cause more damage.
Remote Key
If your car has an old-fashioned key, you can expect to pay less to replace it. These keys have a metal key shaft that's inserted into the ignition, and then turned to start the vehicle. They can be found at places like AutoZone and locksmiths, and do not require any special programming in order to work with your car.
If you're driving a more modern car, your key could have a transponder chip in it to help prevent theft. The chips work by sending signals from the key to the receiver inside the ignition. This ensures that only a valid and working key is used to start the engine. These keys can be upgraded to rolling keys which send an updated signal each time they are used. ignition lock repair means that if someone takes the key away, your car won't start.
Key fobs are basically an electronic remote control that lets you to lock or unlock your car, as well to set off the alarm or open the trunk without having to physically insert it into the ignition. They are more popular on vehicles built after the 1990s. They're a great way to secure your car from theft, and also give you more convenience.
If you have keys that need replacing, be prepared to pay more because they require extra programming. Most dealerships will charge the cost of programming the new one, but you can save money by following the instructions in the owner's manual to the exact sequence of turns and button presses to reprogram it yourself. The key fob itself could cost between $50 to $100 or more.
Switchblade Key
The switchblade key sounds like an armed weapon with blades for parking lot self-defense however it's really an innovative car key that folds into the fob when not in use. This type of key can be purchased at a locksmith shop, an auto dealer, or even online but the cost will be more than traditional keys.
Key fobs manage the functions of your keys and transmit signals when they are within range. The car's computer or immobilizer will be able to recognize the signal and allow the engine to start. Transponder chips have been embedded in modern vehicles since 1995. They transmit a unique, only-your-car-can read-code. Professional car locksmiths can reprogram your key and chip in the event that it is lost or damaged.
Simple, cheap fobs that don't have an embedded chip can be used to replace traditional keys. They are typically available at auto parts stores or other retail outlets that cost between $25 to $100. A key fob replacement with a chip in could cost up to $500, based on the features and the manufacturer.
A key fob that has a switchblade can cost between $200 to $300, which includes the cost of a new batteries and the programming. If the key fob is not damaged, you can replace the blade or shank. In addition certain types of keys may include VATS or PASS Key circuit. These chips are equipped with resistors to hinder unauthorised use by sending different codes to the car's computer as well as an immobilizers when inserted into the ignition cylinder. This will prevent thieves from putting pressure on your ignition cylinder to open, and also makes it difficult for them to copy the key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are likely to be found on vehicles made in the past 20 years. The keys transmit a code when they are inserted into the ignition. This can help prevent vehicle theft. The code is checked by your car's computer and the engine will start when the code matches. You won't be allowed to start your car without an transponder key.
It is important to know that car dealers will charge you a fee if you want to get a new transponder. They are often the only people in town who can make the specific type of key that your car requires. A locksmith, on the other hand can cut and program your new key for less than the cost.
Transponder keys were introduced as an additional security measure in the 1980s, when car thieves began using a method called hot-wiring to facilitate vehicle theft. General Motors began incorporating a tiny RFID chip in its key fobs to stop this. The chip is able to communicate with the car and then start it. This technology stops car theft by making hot-wiring useless.
If you have transponder keys you may notice that the grooves on the metal part of your key are starting to wear down. This is due to the grooves moving tiny pins within the lock into a position that allows your car to start up. You'll also notice that when you insert your key into the ignition the key symbol does not appear on the dashboard of your vehicle. If you're experiencing these issues it's time to contact an expert auto locksmith to change your key.
Smart Key Key
A smart key takes technology a step further. The key instead of an ordinary key, is equipped with a computer that communicates with your vehicle, allowing you perform basic tasks such as unlocking the doors and trunk, as well as opening the car with the press of a button. The keys are more expensive than traditional keys or transponder ones due to the integrated technology.
To work the smart keys, they are equipped with LF (low frequency) transmitting antennas both inside and outside the vehicle that activate when you turn the trunk or door. The LF signal travels through the doors and body to reach the inside electronics, which identify it as a valid smart key. Once the smart key has been recognized, the vehicle removes the immobilizer and begins its engine.
But smart keys can also pose a risk to your safety. If you're far from your vehicle, someone could detect the low-frequency signal and start your vehicle by simply placing it in a compatible ignition slot, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. Some manufacturers limit the transmission range to 10 cm to limit the risk.
The model year and type of vehicle you use can affect the cost of replacing a key. As a general rule older models are more likely to have lower key replacements than those with more modern features. Certain models may require an electronic keypad that's integrated with the fob in order to enable features like remote locking and trunk access. If you're concerned about the replacement will cost, call a local Pop-A-Lock branch to get a quote before you head to the dealership. Our locksmiths are able offer a replacement at cheaper and provide superior service than a dealership.